WA Tenancy Laws Have Changed – Here’s What Every Perth Landlord Needs to Know

The rental landscape in Western Australia has undergone a significant shift. As of July 2024, a series of reforms to the Residential Tenancies Act (WA) came into effect—bringing with them new responsibilities and risks for landlords.

Whether you’re self-managing or working with a property management agency, it’s crucial to stay across these changes to avoid costly disputes or accidental breaches.

Here’s a breakdown of the five biggest WA tenancy law changes—and what they mean for Perth property owners like you:

The 5 Biggest WA Tenancy Law Changes

1. Simplified Bond Release Process

The bond release process is now more efficient, reducing the need for court involvement:

• • Any party—tenant, landlord, or agent—can apply to release the bond.

  • The Bond Administrator will notify all parties.

  • If everyone agrees, the bond is paid out.

  • If there’s disagreement, the Commissioner for Consumer Protection will make a final decision after hearing both sides.

2. New Pet Provisions

   Tenants now have the legal right to request a pet, and landlords can only refuse with valid, documented reasons (e.g., a strata by-law or a demonstrated risk to the property).

3. Rent Increases Now Capped at Once Every 12 Months

   Rent can now only be increased once every 12 months per lease, instead of every six months.

What this means:
Landlords must now be more strategic with rent reviews, using accurate market data and long-term planning.

4. Ban on Rent Bidding

   Tenants can no longer be encouraged or pressured into offering more than the advertised rent to secure a property. This creates a fairer rental application process for all.

5. Stronger Protections Against Retaliatory Action

   If a tenant believes a landlord or agent has acted against them for exercising their rights (e.g., requesting repairs), they can now challenge that action in the Magistrates Court.

Why These Changes Matter for Perth Landlords

These rental law reforms in WA are designed to create fairer housing. But for property owners, they also mean more responsibility, more administration, and greater risk for landlords.

Many property owners unintentionally fall foul of the law—not due to negligence, but because the legislation is complex and constantly evolving.

How Blackburne Helps You Stay Compliant and Protected

At Blackburne Property Management, we take compliance seriously. Our role isn’t just to manage tenants—it’s to shield your investment from unnecessary legal risk.

Here’s how we support our clients:

✅ Real-Time Legal Updates
We stay across every change to WA’s rental laws and communicate clearly with landlords about what’s needed.

✅ Clear Lease Documentation
Our leases are legally watertight and up-to-date with the latest legislative changes—protecting both landlords and tenants.

✅ Tailored Rent Reviews
We help you adjust rent in line with the 12-month rule—ensuring you don’t leave money on the table.

The WA tenancy law changes aren’t something to ignore—they’re already in effect. And while they aim to improve outcomes for tenants, they come with new obligations for property owners.

If you’re self-managing your rental, now is the time to review your practices. And if you’re already with a property manager, it’s worth asking: are they proactive, knowledgeable, and genuinely protecting your interests?

With Blackburne, you get a team of experts who don’t just understand the law—we act on it to keep your property compliant, your tenants happy, and your investment secure.

Get the Right Support to Navigate WA’s New Tenancy Laws

Don’t leave compliance to chance. Whether you’re managing your property yourself or relying on an agency, these new laws require expert knowledge and proactive action.

Choosing the right property manager isn’t just about fees; it’s about trust, experience, and risk management.

At Blackburne, we don’t just handle the day-to-day, we protect your investment. Voted Australia’s Property Management Team of the Year 2025 by REIA, our proactive approach ensures your property stays compliant, your tenants are well-managed, and your returns are maximised.

Discover the Blackburne difference and request a free rental appraisal today.